"City of Lost Souls" is a young adult fantasy novel written by Cassandra Clare. Published in 2012, it is the fifth installment in her popular "Mortal Instruments" series. The series began with the first book, "City of Bones," in 2007, and "City of Lost Souls" continues to follow the adventures of Clary Fray, a young girl who discovers her half-nephilim (angelic) heritage and joins forces with a group of nephilim known as Shadowhunters in their battle against evil forces.
In this particular book, the central plot revolves around Clary's efforts to rescue her boyfriend, Jace, who has been magically bound to her malevolent brother, Sebastian, by the demon Lilith. The story delves into themes of sacrifice, love, and the ongoing struggle between the forces of good and evil. As Clary navigates the challenges of her supernatural world, she must confront difficult choices that could impact not only her own destiny but also the fate of those she cares about.
"City of Lost Souls" is known for its intricate world-building, complex characters, and a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged. Cassandra Clare, who gained recognition for her work in Harry Potter fanfiction before entering traditional publishing, has successfully created a captivating urban fantasy series that has resonated with a wide audience. The book explores dark themes and weaves together elements of romance, action, and the supernatural, contributing to the overall appeal of the "Mortal Instruments" series.